Expanding manufacturing workforce talent pool through multidisciplinary problem-focused experiential learning courses

Abstract

Manufacturing industries increasingly require a multidisciplinary approach to design, develop, and produce products. However, the college-educated talent pool is limited because manufacturing education is typically imparted in just a few engineering disciplines. This case study highlights a project-based undergraduate course that aimed to address this challenge by engaging 44 undergraduate students from 8 different disciplines in experiential learning focused on solving advanced manufacturing problems. Specifically, it focused on solving the affordability and accessibility problems of nanoscale 3D printing by developing hardware and software tools. The class leveraged the contemporary interest in 3D printing and machine learning to attract students from various disciplines. By aligning hands-on projects with their disciplines, the course aimed to not only build relevant skills but also inspire interest in manufacturing careers. Thus, the course introduced manufacturing careers to students who might not otherwise encounter manufacturing-related projects within their academic curriculum.